Thousands Protest Potential End to Ultra-Orthodox Military Exemption in NYC
Thousands of ultra-Orthodox Jews gathered outside the Israeli consulate in New York City on Sunday, protesting a potential change to the exemption of religious students from compulsory military service in Israel. The demonstration, organized by the Satmar community and the Central Rabbinical Congress of the U.S.A. and Canada, highlighted the complex relationship between Israel and ultra-Orthodox Jews in New York and its suburbs.
The protest comes amidst deepening rifts over the military draft issue, particularly since the start of the war in Gaza. Many Jewish Israelis argue that the exemption is unfair, while the ultra-Orthodox worry that mandatory enlistment will impact adherents' ties to their faith.
Last year, Israel's Supreme Court ordered the government to begin drafting ultra-Orthodox Jewish men into the military. Rabbi Moishe Indig, a Satmar community leader, felt urgency building around the issue, leading to the Sunday protest. The event was called for by two influential chief rabbis from the Satmar community, Rabbi Zalman Leib Teitelbaum and Rabbi Aaron Teitelbaum. Despite concerns, the protestors appreciated the governments in New York and the U.S. for allowing the demonstration to take place.
The protest underscored the ongoing debate surrounding the military draft exemption for ultra-Orthodox Jews in Israel. As the issue continues to spark controversy, both sides are expected to remain vocal about their stances, potentially leading to further protests or negotiations.
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